Best Tech Trends of 2017

Technology is a field that evolves faster than the blink of an eye. With constant transformations, it can be difficult to assess how each new trend will play out. In 2017, as in the years past, there were countless new tech trends. While some were fleeting, there were a number of promising trends that have the potential to lead to truly metamorphic changes in the field. These trends will likely continue to rapidly evolve in the years to come, making them the best tech trends of 2017:

1. Customer Service Chat Bots

Fueled by artificial intelligence, chat bots simulate real human conversations. In 2017, many businesses integrated chat bot programs into their e-commerce or call center websites to provide basic guidance to consumers. These chat bots are able to assist consumers with uncomplicated questions or concerns. In turn, this frees up human customer service specialists to address more complex or pressing matters. Although chat bots are still relatively simplistic in nature, advances to their programming are constantly being made. Eventually, chat bots will be able to effectively communicate with one another and be utilized to complete tasks. Paired with Google’s chat bot analytics tool, Chatbase, these bots are becoming an invaluable tool in the world of business.

2. Advanced Machine Learning

The year 2017 saw improved advancements in machine learning. With an increased focus on analyzing big data sets through multi-layered algorithms, advanced machine learning is enabling computers to analyze everything from photographs to maps, to predict emerging trends with shocking accuracy in the world of business. From a consumer’s perspective, this technology has paved the way for tech trends such as shopping bots, smart lighting, and predictive thermostats.

3. Internet of Things (IoT) and Blockchain Pairing

For several years, the focus on the Internet of Things (IoT) has been growing at an impressive rate. One centralized area of focus has been placed on security. By utilizing blockchain technology and its cryptographic algorithms, the Internet of Things (IoT) becomes much more private and secure in 2017. Additionally, the adaptation of this technology allows for better coordination between connected devices ensuring an overall more robust and resilient system.

4. VR/AR Training Tools

In prior years, virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) systems have been geared towards entertainment. With games such as Pokemon Go and videos designed to be paired with VR headsets, the technology proved to be successful for this purpose. In 2017, the focus shifted in both of these fields from being a source of entertainment to having more useful purposes. In many industries, from aviation and healthcare to mechanical engineering, VR and AR programs were designed and adopted for use in providing immersive training to students and new hires alike. Many who have used these programs for training feel as if they have gained valuable knowledge that is comparable to real on-the-job experience. This is a particularly popular tool for professionals, such as surgeons, who must have an extensive knowledge of tools and procedures prior to actually beginning.

While 2017 brought along countless new and exciting tech trends, the best trends are those that truly make a difference. The best tech trends of 2017 certainly made an impact on the technology industry, and many of them promise to progress for years to come.